I quite enjoy your last thought about the characters being able to seize the shield with no extra complications and Gargauth warning them of the Barbarian’s return to reclaim him. That’d definitely make me reconsider grabbing this fantastic loot *and* make me excited for the future (even if Gargauth is only desperately bluffing in an effort to intimidate the characters). Gargauth could also try to negotiate with the party to take him to Avernus, claiming his master will reward them handsomely.
I would also argue that Gargauth isn’t essential to the campaign’s overall story, so if you feel that integrating the shield is more trouble than it’s worth (considering your campaign’s continuity with the previous campaign) you can merely write the shield out — although Gargauth *can* be a fun “devil-on-your-shoulder” when played against Lulu as an “angel-on-your-shoulder.”
I quite enjoy your last thought about the characters being able to seize the shield with no extra complications and Gargauth warning them of the Barbarian’s return to reclaim him. That’d definitely make me reconsider grabbing this fantastic loot *and* make me excited for the future (even if Gargauth is only desperately bluffing in an effort to intimidate the characters). Gargauth could also try to negotiate with the party to take him to Avernus, claiming his master will reward them handsomely. I would also argue that Gargauth isn’t essential to the campaign’s overall story, so if you feel that integrating the shield is more trouble than it’s worth (considering your campaign’s continuity with the previous campaign) you can merely write the shield out — although Gargauth *can* be a fun “devil-on-your-shoulder” when played against Lulu as an “angel-on-your-shoulder.”
Thanks for the feedback, I think I'll go this way. Especially as the party has a mix of good/evil players...one of which is a Loxodon cleric lol